Madonna Will Honor Anderson Cooper at the GLAAD Awards Because Now They’re Both Gay Icons

After a long stay in what many considered to be a glass closet, the now openly gay Anderson Cooper is being honored by the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (more commonly known as GLAAD) -- and none other than Madonna.

"By sharing his own experiences as a gay man, Anderson has reminded millions of Americans that LGBT people are part of their everyday lives and an integral part of our cultural fabric," GLAAD President Herndon Graddick said in a statement. "He continues to raise the bar and set a new standard for journalists everywhere, and I'm proud to call him a friend."

Madge will present him with the honor at the GLAAD Media Awards ceremony in New York City on March 16.

He's in pretty sweet company, too: Prior winners of the award include Rosie O'Donnell, Elton John and Ricky Martin. (But since the former two are known frenemies of Madonna's, maybe our Silver Fox should tread carefully.)